Agent Ulisse Savini also revealed that the 21-year-old had "virtually signed for Napoli" before the San Siro team intercepted and secured his signature.

The Argentina international, who joined Inter at the start of the season from Sampdoria, scored twice against his former club on Sunday and his regular positive performances this season have put him on the radar of many of Europe’s top teams.

"Napoli had practically signed Icardi before he went to Inter," Savini revealed to Radio CRC. "But in the end the rules of the transfer market won through. The Nerazzurri wanted him with all their might.

"Mauro is perfect for Spanish football. Atletico? He could go to Madrid, but I think he will stay with Inter.

"The rumours linking him with Atletico are along the right lines, but they are not concrete. I don’t think he will leave.

"Much is said of Icardi’s personal life, including by himself, but on the pitch he has always shown his worth.

"He is a player with personality and he showed that with his celebration against Sampdoria."